DIY Crystal Studded Straw Bag

If you've been a reader of HonestlyWTF from the start, you'll know that one of the most recurring DIY elements here are crystals. And not just any crystals, Swarovski crystals. The quality is simply superior. Nothing sparkles more beautifully than a Swarovski sparkle. And I've said this before and I'll say it again: if you're going to invest time and energy into creating something from scratch, you'll want to be proud of it and you'll want it to last. Thus, Swarovski is a must! So now that I've made my case for Swarovski crystals, I'm excited to share that I'm partnering with them on a series of DIYs in celebration of the launch of their new online community, Create Your Style. It's a place where DIYers like you can find inspiration for your next project and communicate with other makers with questions, tips and suggestions. There are already so many wonderful projects posted, I encourage you to explore it and get inspired. Or even better, share some of your own crystal projects!

I'm kicking off the DIY series with a tutorial inspired by crystal studded straw baskets by Italian label Le Nine. It's the perfect way to upcycle the abundant amount of straw bags and baskets that I can't seem to stop collecting during the summer months. Adding large crystals to the bag instantly adds glamour and transforms it into a winter appropriate accessory. Here, I'm simply using an inexpensive mini straw belly basket but of course, any small straw bag or basket will do . . .

Place a loose crystal into its setting. Take a pair of flat nose pliers and press one of the prongs down, onto the crystal. Then, press down on the opposite prong and close the rest of the prongs so that the crystal is secure in its setting.

Once all of your crystals have been set, you'll start to attach them to your bag. I like to use hot glue here since it dries quickly and you don't have to worry about the stones sliding during the drying process with a glue like E6000. If you do use a hot glue gun, it'll probably need some extra reinforcement, which is why I like using Swarovski's sew-on settings. You can go back with a needle and thread and sew them onto the bag after they've been glued.

I like to start in the middle of the bag and work horizontally, in rows. Alternate the pattern moving onto the next rows.

Most of these straw belly baskets come with very short handles. You'll want to replace them with longer leather straps. Simply cut the straw handles off with a sharp pair of shears.

These leather purse handles come with pre-punched holes for easy sewing. Waxed thread is necessary here since it's so durable and gives the leather a strong hold onto your surface. Tie a double knot at the end of your waxed thread and push it through the inside of the bag, through the first hole.

Make your first stitch by pushing the needle through the second hole. Then (this is important!), push the needle through the 3rd hole.

Erica, I’ve been a long time fan of the site back in 2010-ish period. I’m constantly amazed at what you do and yes this is an awesome DIY! =D Love the videos – makes things much more clearer and I love the finish product.